The Art of Manliness The Art of Manliness

Big P vs. Little P Purpose — Why You Don't Need to Find Your One True Calling

Aug 4, 2026 · 50m

Summary

Brett McKay interviews Jordan Grumet, author of *The Purpose Code*, who argues that pursuing a singular "Big P" purpose often leads to burnout and anxiety. Grumet advocates for "little p" purposes—action-oriented activities enjoyed for their own sake—to foster meaning, connection, and legacy. Drawing from his background as a hospice doctor, he shares practical exercises like regret audits and childhood joy reflections to help listeners identify and build these fulfilling pursuits.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: Shopify and Wayfair Introduction: Purpose vs. Happiness Jordan's Journey from Doctor to Financial Independence The Trap of Deferring Purpose for Financial Independence Big P Purpose vs. Little P Purpose Why Big Audacious Goals Lead to Burnout The Power of Little P Purpose and Generational Impact Sponsors: Greatist, Chime, Tiny Health, and Indeed How Little P Purpose Builds Connections and Happiness Finding Purpose Anchors: Regret Audits and Childhood Joys The Climb: Testing Purpose Anchors and Finding Flow Why Family Should Not Be Your Sole Purpose Outro and Sponsor: Progressive
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